Peñascal surf guide

Peñascal is located off the southern tip of the San Bartolo headland. It’s known for its rugged landscape and powerful waves, making it a notable spot for surfers in the area. The wave generally breaks over boulders, which means it's essential to be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're not experienced with rock-hopping. The crowds here are usually moderate and well-spread out, thanks to the shifting nature of the peak. It can be a fun spot, but it's not for everyone.

The surf at Peñascal is primarily a long right, but you can catch some lefts depending on the swell direction. The optimal swell direction is South, and it handles swell sizes at about 6ft (approximately 1.8 meters). When the swell is nicely lined up from the South-Southwest, the right can produce some pretty mean barrels. It tends to be more of a wall-shaping wave, which can get serious from double-overhead heights at the point. Low to mid tide is generally preferable here, and with Northeast winds, you can find it working well. The conditions are better suited for intermediate surfers who can handle the drops and the intensity.

While the high tide can mess with the surf quality, the wave often handles a bit of onshore wind better than other nearby breaks. Just keep in mind that the paddle back out can be tricky. The area has a good consistency when there's a proper swell, but you might need to wait for those head-high conditions to get the best rides. If you're not used to rocky spots, consider starting on the mellower peaks in the bay near the jetties.